The 20 Query Framework for LLM Visibility

A Systematic Approach to AEO

One of the biggest challenges in AEO is knowing where to focus your efforts. Unlike SEO, where keyword tools provide clear search volume data, AEO requires a more strategic approach.

That's why we developed the 20 Query Framework--a systematic method for identifying and prioritizing the queries that matter most for your SaaS's AI visibility.

The Framework Overview

The 20 Query Framework organizes potential AI queries into four categories:

1. Direct Product Queries (5 queries)
2. Category Queries (5 queries)
3. Problem-Solution Queries (5 queries)
4. Comparison Queries (5 queries)

Category 1: Direct Product Queries

These are queries where users specifically ask about your product or brand.

Examples:

• "What is [Your Product] and what does it do?"
• "Is [Your Product] worth the price?"
• "[Your Product] vs alternatives"
• "How do I use [Your Product] for [specific task]?"
• "[Your Product] reviews and customer feedback"

Why they matter: These queries indicate high intent. Users who ask directly about your product are close to making a decision.

Category 2: Category Queries

These queries target your product category without mentioning specific brands.

Examples:

• "Best [product category] for [use case]"
• "Top [product category] tools in 2024"
• "What [product category] do startups use?"
• "Enterprise [product category] solutions"
• "Free vs paid [product category] tools"

Why they matter: These queries capture users at the research stage, before they've settled on specific options.

Category 3: Problem-Solution Queries

These queries focus on problems your product solves, without mentioning product categories.

Examples:

• "How do I [solve specific problem]?"
• "Best way to [achieve specific outcome]"
• "Why is [pain point] happening and how to fix it"
• "Tips for [improving specific metric]"
• "What tools help with [specific challenge]?"

Why they matter: These queries often come from users who don't yet know what type of solution they need.

Category 4: Comparison Queries

These queries pit your product against competitors or alternatives.

Examples:

• "[Your Product] vs [Competitor A]"
• "[Competitor A] vs [Competitor B] vs [Your Product]"
• "Best alternative to [Competitor]"
• "Should I switch from [Competitor] to [Your Product]?"
• "[Product category] comparison 2024"

Why they matter: Comparison queries indicate a user is actively evaluating options and close to making a purchase decision.

How to Use the Framework

Step 1: Fill in Your 20 Queries

Start by identifying specific queries in each category that are relevant to your product. Be specific and realistic--these should be queries real users would ask.

Step 2: Benchmark Current Performance

Test each query across multiple AI tools (ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, etc.) and record:

• Are you mentioned?
• In what position?
• What's the sentiment?
• Who else is mentioned?

Step 3: Prioritize by Impact

Focus on queries where:

• You're not currently mentioned but should be
• Competitors are mentioned but you're not
• The query represents high-value users

Step 4: Create Targeted Content

For each priority query, develop content that directly and comprehensively answers the question. This content should live on your site and be referenced/linked from authoritative external sources.

Step 5: Monitor and Iterate

Re-test your queries monthly. Track improvements and adjust your strategy based on what's working.

The Power of Systematic AEO

The 20 Query Framework transforms AEO from a vague aspiration into a measurable, actionable strategy. By focusing on specific queries and tracking your performance, you can:

• Identify gaps in your AI visibility
• Prioritize high-impact opportunities
• Measure progress over time
• Allocate resources effectively

Start with 20 queries. Master those. Then expand.